What were some of your favorite courses, and what made them valuable to you?
As a busy medical doctor running my practice with nearly 50 employees, I found myself constantly pressed for time, yet also keenly aware of the importance of expanding my knowledge beyond medicine.
I recognized the need to enhance my management skills, so I decided to enroll in the master’s degree program at Harvard Extension School.
After a challenging yet rewarding journey, I firmly believe it was the right decision, as I’ve gained invaluable insights and skills that have enriched both my professional and personal life.
My favorite courses stood out for a variety of reasons.
Firstly, Principles of Real Estate was a highlight for me. I’ve always been intrigued by investing outside of the medical field and real estate felt like the perfect fit. Under the guidance of Teo Nicholais, I gained invaluable insights into property valuation and understanding return on investment.
Another standout was Business Law, taught by Shawn O’Connor. Despite its condensed format as a January session course, its relevance cannot be overstated. Understanding the fundamentals of business law is crucial for anyone, and the course provided a solid foundation in this area.
Negotiation and Organizational Conflict Resolution, taught by Dr. Paula Gutlove, was also a favorite of mine. It truly opened my eyes to new perspectives and ways of thinking. Learning to empathize with the other party’s point of view and striving for mutually beneficial outcomes fundamentally changed how I approach interactions. It was a transformative experience that left me feeling like a better person.
Lastly, Organizational Behavior was incredibly enlightening, taught by Lee Bolman. Exploring frameworks such as human resources shed light on the intricate dynamics within organizations and provided valuable tools for understanding and navigating them effectively — including in the medical practice that I run.
What’s something expected that you learned about Harvard?
I discovered a rich offering of practical courses — including business law, negotiation, public speaking, and real estate — which not only enhance academic knowledge but also equip individuals with essential skills for real-world skills.
What are you going to miss the most?
I’ll miss the constant learning and education at Harvard the most, as I have a strong desire to continually expand my knowledge.
In fact, I’m already planning to pursue a real estate investment certificate and explore courses in execution and entrepreneurship after completing my degree this spring!
Describe your Extension experience in one word.
Transformational.
